The Los Angeles Dodgers are in Texas on Monday to open a series against the Houston Astros, and they just might have reinforcements. Right-handed reliever Brock Stewart‘s return from the injured list is expected soon, according to Jack Harris of The California Post. It will be Stewart’s season debut once he takes a major-league mound. A corresponding roster move is pending.
Brock Stewart’s Return Expected During Dodgers’ Series vs. Rangers
Help Coming
Manager Dave Roberts noted last night that Stewart had made his last rehab appearance last night before joining the Dodgers’ bullpen. The right-handed reliever had an extended rehab timeline at Triple-A Oklahoma City to make sure he is fully recovered from shoulder surgery that ended his season prematurely in 2025. For what it’s worth, Stewart didn’t allow a run in his time in the minors.
Brock Stewart has a locker with the Dodgers here in Houston
He made what was expected to be his final minor-league rehab outing yesterday, so could be activated this series
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) May 4, 2026
Finding His Role
Stewart is a product of the Dodgers organization. He was originally a starter with mixed results. Ironically, the right-hander found his niche as a pitcher when he left Los Angeles and joined the Minnesota Twins. His abbreviated outings allowed him to add velocity to his fastball. He soon added a sweeper to his repertoire, which gave him a deadly combination of pitches and added to his effectiveness. As a result, his ERA plummeted by two runs and made him an ideal set-up man. Not surprisingly, he drew the interest of several teams at the trade deadline. The Dodgers, who desperately needed a relief option from the right side, acquired Stewart. However, his second stint was short-circuited due to shoulder inflammation after just four appearances.
Who Will He Replace?
The Dodgers will have to make room on the roster for Brock Stewart’s return. The most likely choice to be optioned is youngster Edgardo Henriquez. The younger hurler has “swing and miss” stuff, but hasn’t been able to control it so far this season. The right-hander has a high walk rate and an ERA above five. Of course, high-leverage reliever Blake Treinen has been worse this season, with an ERA two runs higher than the rookie. However, the Dodgers seem to have more patience with their veterans. But the clock does seem to be ticking.
Main Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
